![]() There are many recordings of these variations on pianos, clavichords and, of course, on the original instrument for which they were composed, the harpsichord. During a period of at least a few decades I have listened to several of these interpretations by leading artists in those fields and, actually, to review this present recording by Mika Väyrynen, I have re-acquainted myself with some of them. Without any reservations I will recommend the CD by Mika! It is simply an extraordinary demonstration of the very best qualities possible in musical performance. ![]() Both the instrument, a Russian Jupiter, and the venue in which the recording was made, allow the artist the opportunity to display the joy, the grandeur and the true spirit of Bach. The polyphony of this repertoire can be heard with the utmost clarity both required and essential in the music of Bach. It is Mika Väyrynen, however, who has used his wealth of musical understanding and his prodigious technique in both hands to give a performance that will evoke feelings and emotions in every listener. The esteemed pianist, András Schiff, has stated: "On whatever instrument we choose to play, style is of prime importance." Väyrynen has that style! About tempi Schiff said: "Determining the tempo, for example, is one of the key points for any piece of music, but it is the performer's duty to present his tempo so convincingly that it will sound inevitable to the listener." Väyrynen has achieved this with his choices! (At this point I tried listing some of the Variations that I found particularly outstanding; it was impossible to choose. You will, however, by astounded by Variations 5, 7, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23 see what I mean? I could list all of them and be honest. Every single Variation has something to admire and truly appreciate for its musical quality. The technical fireworks seem effortless, performed with a lyrical quality to make one forget how difficult they are. The maturity manifested throughout the composition seems to prove the artist has studied, performed and lived with it for some time.) ![]() ![]() The accordion milieu often complains about the scarcity of an accordionist who is well known and appreciated within the renowned musical circles throughout the world. It often asks what can be done to alleviate this absence. Well, here is something we can and must do! Take this Mika Väyrynen recording of The Goldberg Variations to someone who books or reviews artists in your city. I promise they will be extremely impressed. And, who knows, maybe they will select Mika Väyrynen for their next concert series! This CD is most highly recommended! The cost for this CD is 18.50 euros and may be obtained through: Karthause Schmuelling in Germany (www.intermusik-zeitung.de) or Finnish Accordion Institute (kimmo.mattila@harmonikkainstituutti.net) Produced by Alba Records, PO Box 549 Fin-33101 Tampere, Finland E-mail: timo@alba-records.fi (only for distributors & large orders) |